PRESERVING WEDDING GOWNS What advice can you share on preserving my wedding dress after the big day? Many brides spend thousands of pounds on their wedding dresses, so caring for the gown is crucial to prevent tears in the fabric or mould damage. Keep your wedding dress stored in a fabric garment bag rather than a plastic covering to keep it protected and in a breathable environment. Plastic could create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, as any moisture can become trapped. It’s highly recommended that you entrust your dress to the hands of a professional dry cleaner or a specialist for dresses and gowns the day after your wedding day. These experts not only have the knowledge and experience to preserve the dress but also the tools and techniques to ensure that any stains are removed as soon as possible without causing long-lasting damage. This professional care will give you peace of mind about the preservation process, knowing your dress is in the best hands. While it may be tempting to save space and store your dress in a basement or loft, it’s important to consider the risk of exposure to moisture, dampness and mould. To ensure the long-term preservation of your gown, it’s best to store it in a cool, dark and dry place like a fitted wardrobe. This careful storage will also prevent the dress from turning yellow from sunlight exposure, giving you confidence in its preservation and the security of your investment. Wedding dresses should be hung up with loops rather than straps or sleeves to stop the fabric from stretching. The loops will take the weight of the dress to prevent any damage. Hang the dress with a thick wooden or padded fabric hanger rather than a wire alternative, which could cause rust and tear of the fabric. If you store your dress in a storage box after the big day, use acidfree tissue paper or invest in a large, acid-free storage box. If not, the tissue paper can become acidic over time and damage the dress. Coloured tissue paper other than white should also be avoided, as it could leak onto the gown. Nic Shacklock | Online Bedrooms www.online-bedrooms.co.uk THE PERFECT TEAM So many photographers are out there; how do we choose the right one for us? Selecting the right photographer to document your special day can seem daunting. Choosing your photography team isn’t just about the photos; it’s about the whole package: the communication, the experience, the friendliness, the ability to organise people, the creativity plus the beforeand-aftercare. Not everyone has these skills, so getting it right is essential. Start your search by browsing online portfolios, social media profiles, and wedding photography websites. Pay attention to the consistency of each supplier’s style, ability to capture emotion and overall quality of their work. Note photographers whose images resonate with you and bookmark them for further consideration. Ensure you look at real weddings and not styled shoots, as these are different. Being able to capture a wedding is a lot harder! Wedding photography prices can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location and package offerings. Are you adding a video as well? Remember that quality photography often comes with a higher price tag, leaving you safe knowing that the day will be captured as you want without any stress. Once you’ve shortlisted potential photographers, schedule meetings virtually or in-person to gauge their personality, professionalism and communication style. Use this opportunity to share your vision for the day and ask about their experience and process. Most importantly, ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Don’t be afraid to ask photographers about their experience, equipment and approach to wedding photography. I love getting asked questions, as they give an insight into what type of couple you are and keep us both on the same page. Inquire about their backup plans in case of emergencies with health and equipment. Clarify doubts or concerns to ensure you’re on the same page before deciding. Testimonials and reviews are invaluable resources for understanding a photographer’s reputation and service quality. Personal recommendations, in particular, can offer unique insights into their professionalism, reliability and ability to deliver on their promises. It’s reassuring that most of our work comes from recommendations, a testament to our commitment to quality. Always remember to review payment terms. What deposit is needed to secure your date, what options do you have to pay and when does everything need to be paid? Most photographers get booked one to two years in advance, which takes away the main season dates well in advance. Don’t leave it until the last minute, as paying your deposit secures your date from other couples. Finding the right wedding photographer is a crucial step in ensuring that your special day is beautifully documented for years to come. Don’t settle for cheap prices. Remember, the photographer you choose will be responsible for capturing the memories of your special day, so it’s important to invest in someone who can do justice to those moments. Nick Rogers | Nicholas Rogers Photography www.njr-photography.co.uk www.njr-photography.co.uk www.pexels.com 80
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